The concept of a \u00a0holiday resort\u00a0 in one of the world\u2019s most \u00a0isolated nations\u00a0 seemed far-fetched, yet North Korea has unveiled Wonsan Kalma, a beach resort inspired by popular tourist spots like \u00a0Benidorm\u00a0. This ambitious development raises questions about its attractions, feasibility, and the type of guests it aims to attract.<\/p>\n
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The \u00a0inauguration\u00a0 of Wonsan Kalma earlier this year opened its doors not just to locals, but, as of recently, to a select group of \u00a0foreign visitors\u00a0. Russian citizens were the first to enjoy this \u00a0exclusive resort\u00a0, highlighting an intentional pivot toward enhancing ties with Russia amid warming diplomatic relations between the two nations.<\/p>\n
The inception of Wonsan Kalma dates back to 2018 when \u00a0Kim Jong Un\u00a0 envisioned the project during his New Year speech. The resort is expected to feature \u00a0high-rise hotels\u00a0, \u00a0casinos\u00a0, sprawling \u00a0shopping centers\u00a0, and even a \u00a0water park\u00a0. This venture aligns with North Korea’s \u00a0propaganda efforts\u00a0, presenting the image of progress and a stance on the so-called \u00a0“policy centered around the people.”\u00a0 However, satellite images indicate that a significant portion of the resort remains unfinished, casting doubt on the vision’s full realization.<\/p>\n
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The partial \u00a0reopening of borders\u00a0 earlier this year was not just a step toward resuming tourism but also a means to reinforce North Korea’s political and military alignment with \u00a0Moscow\u00a0. During this time, the arrival of Russian visitors coincided with the \u00a0visit of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov\u00a0, highlighting the synergy between the two countries.<\/p>\n
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Reports have confirmed that the inaugural group of Russian tourists had a unique experience, including accommodations at luxury hotels and receiving personal attention from \u00a0Kim himself\u00a0. This blending of politics and tourism suggests that the regime aims to leverage the resort as a \u00a0propaganda tool\u00a0, demonstrating its capability to host high-profile visitors despite ongoing \u00a0international sanctions\u00a0.<\/p>\n
The initial wave of tourists included affluent \u00a0adventure seekers\u00a0 who began their journey in \u00a0Pyongyang\u00a0. Instead of a direct flight, they were rerouted on a lengthy 10-hour train ride to the resort, a change attributed to preparations for Lavrov\u2019s arrival. Upon reaching Wonsan, the visitors were greeted by \u00a0almost deserted beaches\u00a0 and attentive staff eager to accommodate any requests, from customized breakfasts to setting up chairs on the sand.<\/p>\n
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The beaches at Wonsan Kalma are reportedly segregated for \u00a0locals and foreigners\u00a0, which adds a layer of complexity to the experience. The aquatic park remains off-limits to foreign guests, and the payment system operates via \u00a0rechargeable electronic bracelets\u00a0 only accepted in select currencies, namely dollars, euros, or yuan. Prices were notably flexible: a beer costs about \u00a060 cents\u00a0 while a model missile sells for a staggering \u00a0$465\u00a0.<\/p>\n
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One noteworthy aspect of the experience involved visitors being given the freedom to photograph their surroundings. They captured not just the beauty of the beach but also the quirky aspects of North Korean culture, such as \u00a0imported Heineken beer\u00a0 and \u00a0war-themed toys\u00a0, providing an unusual glimpse into a nation often shrouded in mystery.<\/p>\n
The arrival of Lavrov caused a shift in the atmosphere at the resort, attracting a larger crowd of \u00a0North Korean citizens\u00a0, likely from the elite class. These visitors, distinguishable by their fashionable attire and modern smartphones, brought a new dynamic to the environment. Tourists reported numerous instances of the service staff demonstrating unexpected behaviors, including \u00a0disregarding “no disturbance” signs\u00a0 and adjusting water temperatures without consent.<\/p>\n
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In a notably odd incident, dozens of North Koreans adorned in swimsuits jumped into the water next to Russian guests. This spontaneous display of camaraderie highlighted the contrasts between life for international visitors and the restrictive environment typically experienced by locals.<\/p>\n
Wonsan Kalma is projected as not just a leisure complex but also a \u00a0symbol of resilience\u00a0 against sanctions, showcasing North Korea\u2019s ability to offer luxury experiences. Additionally, the regime intends to utilize access to the resort as a means of encouraging \u00a0loyalty\u00a0, reinforcing the narrative that prosperity can flourish under Kim’s leadership.<\/p>\n
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While the government is keen to attract international tourists, experts caution that interest may be limited. Most travelers are more inclined to explore \u00a0Pyongyang\u00a0\u2019s ideological monuments than to sunbathe on a beach in North Korea. Nevertheless, plans are underway for the next group of Russian tourists to visit, as Wonsan is positioned to symbolize the relationship between North Korea and Russia amidst political \u00a0turmoil\u00a0 and international isolation.<\/p>\n
Overall, Wonsan Kalma projects an image of a modern \u00a0tourist retreat\u00a0, despite the unique challenges it faces in attracting a diverse range of visitors. Even when operating under severe restriction and scrutiny, the regime aims to highlight that it can still provide \u00a0exclusive and luxurious\u00a0 experiences to a select few.<\/p>\n